Foster & District

Agricultural Show

It is with great disappointment that we announce that the 2021 Foster & District Show planned for Saturday 27th February will not go ahead as a normal show. Concerns about community safety in light of COVID-19, coronavirus restrictions and the planned redevelopment of the basketball stadium due to commence in February have led to this decision. However, not wanting to pull the pin on the 2021 show altogether, we are excited to offer a condensed schedule of competitions online.

Whilst many country ag shows have cancelled their 2020 and 2021 shows due to COVID-19, we are fortunate to have a range of competitions that can be run remotely. A number of very generous sponsors will enable our On Farm Challenges – Commercial Dairy, Silage Quality, Hay Bale Art and, for the first time in 2021, Commercial Beef – to proceed as usual although the announcement of winners will occur online rather than on showday. Stewards from the photography, exhibit shed and ambassador sections are working hard to develop a range of classes that will fit into an online format. The virtual transition for our 2021 show will also enable us to offer a sheep competition, something we’ve not been able to physically host at the show for many years. We look forward to engaging South Gippsland in a fun, community event from the comfort of their own homes.

With the lack of a normal showday in 2021 we will be especially eager for the return of hosting the show as a public event in 2022. Our Show has been very fortunate to receive funding from the Agricultural Shows Regional Development Program and we’ll be keen for the community to enjoy the improvements enabled by this grant. The refurbishment of the interior of the Exhibit Shed will commence shortly and we are awaiting the arrival of more portable seating, an event marquee and portable sheep yards.

For the latest information regarding our online competitions keep an eye on The Mirror, our website www.fostershow.com and Facebook page @fosteragshow. If COVID restrictions allow by February 2021 there is a possibility we will host a spectator-free horse competition at the showgrounds. 

We were so pleased to deem the 112th Foster & District Ag Show a success! Perfect weather, new competitions including a woodchop and on farm dairy challenges combined with the immense enthusiasm of our local community for the return of their agricultural show resulted in exceptional attendance rates. Strong competition returned to the exhibit shed with 10-12 entries in both the VAS Fruit Cake and Carrot Cake competitions. Horse classes, HRCAV ring and showjumping in particular, had high participation rates and the dog high jump was a real crowd favourite with the grandstand overflowing with spectators. Nearly 250 free showbags were awarded for our inaugural “Golden Brick Road” challenge for kids to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the township of Foster. 

The committee would like to thank all the businesses and individuals that supported the return of our show, be it financially or simply for their attendance. We are excited to spend the next 12 months working towards a great 113th Foster & District Show to be held on Saturday 27th February 2021!

The Foster Show is a celebration of agriculture, the foundation of many families and businesses in South Gippsland. We're proud to offer an event true to what country shows started as - a showcase of the best stock, produce and crafts in the district and the opportunity for locals to catch up with old mates and check out what's new in farming and their community. 

Regardless of age, gender or background, there's something for everyone at the Foster Show. After the kids have checked out their winnings in the pavilion competitions there's plenty of free entertainment on offer including Bricks 4 Kidz and face painting; the pet parade and; the animal nursery so they can get up close and personal with their favourite furry friends. The adults get a chance to get away from the house or work for the day, catch up with friends, compare downfalls and successes of the last year and check out what local businesses have to offer. Whilst the oldies are their to steal the show in the pavilion with their second to none preserves and knitting, they also get the opportunity to reminisce on their days on the farm or riding their pony to school as they stroll down the Avenue of Agriculture. 

If that hasn't sold it for you, spending the day at the Foster Show is simply a great way to show your support of agriculture in Australia and your local community. The people of Foster have loved their show for over 100 years and they're excited to share it with you! 

Family $20

(2 adults & 3 children under 16y)

Adult $10

(16yrs and over)

Concession $5

(must produce student, health care or pension card)

Children $2

(less than 16yr old)